Word of the Day
Learn a new word every day! The Dictionary.com team of language experts carefully selects each Word of the Day to add some panache to your vocabulary.
extremely observant; watchful
If you're Argus-eyed, you're exceptionally observant and quick to notice details that others might miss. Argus was a mythical giant who was said to have a hundred eyes, making him the ultimate watchman. Being Argus-eyed sounds great until you notice that one tile that's oh-so-slightly chipped and you can't unsee it!
The Argus-eyed supervisor noticed the tiny mistake before anyone else and paused the production line.
a person with a hearty appetite
A trencherman is a person with a hearty appetite who can hold their own at any buffet. The word has a quirky history involving people eating food using pieces of wood or even stale bread as a plate. A trencherman isn't necessarily a gourmet or a food critic. They're simply someone who's always ready for seconds.
The cruise's unlimited portions were the perfect excuse for unleashing his inner trencherman.
a general overview
A conspectus is a high-level summary that brings a subject into view at a glance. It can serve as an orientation before diving into something to make sure no one gets overwhelmed with details. A good conspectus doesn't tell you everything, but it gives you a useful sense of what's ahead.
The professor provided a brief conspectus of the course before beginning the first lecture.
used as an exclamation of sorrow, regret, or dismay
Alack is an old-fashioned cry of shock and sorrow. It can be shouted solo, but you might also see it paired up with its better-known cousin "alas." Alack and alas, they don't make interjections like they used to!
With a heavy heart, she cried aloud, "Alack, our grand plans have completely failed!"
having a strong pleasant flavor
Something sapid has a rich flavor that's sure to please. The word comes in handy when "tasty" feels too vague and "flavorful" doesn't quite capture the full experience. Sapid is all about food that makes you happy with every bite.
The chef prepared a sapid stew that delighted everyone at the table.
